• Observations
• Building a Model Ecosystem
• Reading and Reflection
• Making Connections

OBSERVATIONS (2 weeks) Students learn how to observe a local environment (a study site) holistically. They learn to consider the colors, the smells, the shapes, the textures, the tastes, and the feelings evoked from the environment. As well, they study the natural cycles at work on their chosen ecosystem, the relationship between animals and plants, and the changes to the area over time. Further, students observe an ecosystem of their own creation. Why is it important to learn observation? The environment around us, in order to be understood, must first be noticed in all its glorious detail. Once we start to see, we can start to consider our relationship with our surroundings.
Materials & Resources	Implementation	General Tips/ Obstacles to Expect
Outside locations/study sites where students can safely sit and observe a natural environment for up to 25 minutes. (The locations will need to be local as students will need to return to it again and again over an 8 week period). Student Journals	Mr. McWeeny assigns homework in terms of TABS in students' journals. "This is for TAB #7" he might say and then tell students how many pages to leave for the assignment. For homework, have students go observe an area and write about or draw their observations in detail. Plan discussions, in-class activities (self and peer assessment based), and other observation-related homework. Keep due dates flexible so that students can focus on improving their work rather than just getting it done. See the story of how Mr. McWeeny implements this unit. The assignments, student work, reactions and assessment are displayed.	Students may keep asking how to observe ... Stay vague so that students figure out on their own what it means to observe. Give students lots of opportunities to write down their observations. Make sure students select a place ("study site") they can get to often in the next eight weeks as they will be recreating the environment in the second phase of this unit. Useful Assessments: Self Assessments Peer Assessments Teacher Assessments

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